There's hoofing and then there's hoofing, and Tap Dogs is definitely the latter. If I thought I could get away with a one word review, astound would be it, but I think my editors would kind of frown on that. So here it goes.

Tap Dogs is not just a show about tap (well it is, but it sin't ). Designer/Director Nigel Triffitt combines the show with visual artistry to create the layers in Tap Dogs. The set moves and changes with the performers much like a David Copperfield show builds to some big thing disappearing. Triffitt also does well to establish the performers' personalities without much dialogue ( I think there were not more than 10 words spoken during the whole show). Mr. Perry's choreography is both intense and comical, bringing the audience into the show one moment and causing them to laugh the next.

Performer Nathan Sheens does a wonderful job as the Circus Master for his 6 men who do some amazing things with their feet. They do everything from tapping upside down in the air to tapping in a trough of water. (If you have front row seats, think Sea World). On the whole the show is enjoyable, with only a few moments where the energy falters. And in these cases, the dancers soon pick up the ball and keep on running.

Just remember when you see it that Tap Dogs is more like a concert than a play, with the art being the most important thing. Hence the plot (almost non-existent ) is not as important. Go with that in mind, and I think you will enjoy it.

Eric Von Stephan is an engineer aspiring eventually to make a living pursuing his real love, drama. He makes a mean gumbo, and he works as a director and more at Theatre Downtown. Other Articles I've Written